Losers Bracket

Chris Crutcher has written nine critically acclaimed novels, an autobiography, and two collections of short stories. Drawing on his experience as a family therapist and child protection specialist, Crutcher writes honestly about real issues facing teenagers today: making it through school, competing in sports, handling rejection and failure, and dealing with parents. He has won three lifetime achievement awards for the body of his work: the Margaret A. Edwards Award, the ALAN Award, and the NCTE National Intellectual Freedom Award. Chris Crutcher lives in Spokane, Washington.

“Crutcher’s...expertise gives the narrative, about the harsh realities of what happens when kids are failed by both their parents and the state, its authenticity.” — Publishers Weekly“Annie’s voice is strong and often bracing...An appealing narrative voice and fast-moving plot that will engage readers from the first page.” — School Library Journal“Crutcher tells a story that is genuine and affecting in its engagement with complications within the foster care system. ...a critique of the status quo of social services, but this novel is also effective in portraying how truly messy it all can be.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books“This novel is as engaging as it is heartbreaking. Annie’s story is poignant and hopeful, with dashes of sass, humor, and devastation. ...This is a recommendation read for fans of Andrew Smith, Marieke Nijkamp...[and] those who enjoy riveting realistic fiction.” — Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)